One of three sons of publishing magnate William Ziff Jr. (d. 2006), who left career in academia to take over Ziff-Davis publishing company from father 1953. Built niche media empire (PC Magazine, Car & Driver, Boating). Sold 95% of business to Forstmann Little for $1.4 billion in 1994, retired to Florida. With two brothers founded Ziff Family Investments; today money scattered across hedge funds, real estate, debt, equities, commodities. Seeded hedge fund manager Daniel Och in exchange for 10% stake 1994; Och-Ziff public 2 years ago, shares down 60% since.